SNCF: train travel across France and Europe

The modernisation of the SNCF network in Île-de-France continues at a steady pace to offer users an ever more efficient and resilient service. Among the key projects, the Massy Valenton Ouest project has separated the TGV and RER C tracks, optimising traffic flow and reducing delays on this strategic section. This improvement makes connections between lines B and C easier, while increasing train capacity, a real step forward for daily commuters. 🚄

In addition, the extension of the RER E westward, initiated as part of the EOLE project, relieves congested lines by connecting new towns to Paris. This extension meets the growing mobility needs of the region and offers a fast, convenient alternative to heavily used lines such as the RER A, directly benefiting users. 🎉

SNCF Réseau is also carrying out a major overhead-line modernisation project on Line D to power new-generation trains, which are more spacious and efficient. This work marks a new era for the Île-de-France network, positioning it as a model of sustainable and innovative public transport! 🏅

For travelers wishing to book a trip using vacation vouchers, it is necessary to go directly through the SNCF website.

Why?

Simply because Tictactrip does not yet accept this payment method.

On the SNCF website, once you've found your route, you can place a hold on your booking, which will register your seats.

To finalize payment, go to the station, present your booking number and ask to pay with your vacation vouchers.

You can also carry out all these steps directly at the station.

To cancel your SNCF train ticket, go to the SNCF website.

In the "My trips" tab, select the booking to cancel and click "cancel". And there you go, it's done!

The process is the same for exchanging an SNCF e-ticket.

As for SNCF refunds, they are possible for certain tickets, particularly those purchased via the SNCF app or website.

Cancellations and refunds must be made no later than 1.5 hours before departure.

Good news: when booking via Tictactrip, your tickets are also refundable!

To learn more about refunds in case of strikes or delays, check out the dedicated FAQ.

Also note that the cancellation and refund terms vary depending on the SNCF cards and subscriptions you hold. From a Liberté card to a trip without a card, refund conditions may differ.

In case of disability or reduced mobility, the free Access Plus service lets you travel with complete peace of mind. By booking this service, you benefit from dedicated assistance for boarding and alighting your SNCF train, with support for luggage up to 15 kg.

Access Plus is available on domestic, international and regional journeys with connections.

Good to know: in 2016, an accessibility master plan was signed, aiming to bring 160 new stations up to standard over 10 years, with the goal of accessibility for one out of every two stations on national lines by 2024.

To book an SNCF train ticket, several options are available to make your purchase easier.

For TGV InOui trains and access to loyalty cards, go to the official website Oui.sncf or use its mobile app. If you're traveling on Ouigo, head to the Ouigo website or app for low-priced tickets. Need to carpool? The iDVROOM website is there for your shared rides.

Other platforms like Tictactrip also let you compare and find SNCF tickets at the best price. With Tictactrip, no need to search everywhere: the tool identifies the best options for you, including intermodal routes, to save you time and money.

Finally, you can buy your tickets directly at the station, at ticket counters or self-service kiosks.

When booking, remember to indicate your preferences for a personalized trip: window or aisle seat, family square seating, direction of travel, etc. These options ensure comfort tailored to your needs for a pleasant journey on the SNCF network!

To report a lost or found item, everything happens online on the gareetconnexions.sncf website. Simply fill out the dedicated form; once completed, you'll receive an email confirming that your request has been received.

"Lost and found" offices are also available at certain major SNCF stations to assist you in person.

Searches for lost items last a maximum of 30 days from the date of the loss report. If your item is found, you will be notified by email or phone.

You can then collect your item at the station where it was found, or choose home delivery for a shipping fee. To retrieve it, proof of identity and a €5 fee are required.

• Remember to bring your ID card, needed for possible identity or luggage checks. Presenting an ID is often required for security reasons, and it is essential to validate certain types of tickets. Keep it easily accessible to avoid any inconvenience.
• Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train's departure so you can find your way, locate your platform and carriage, and board calmly. Access to trains is generally blocked between 2 and 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time, depending on the type of train and departure station, to ensure punctuality. This safety margin will let you get through checks and reach the platform without rushing.
• Have your SNCF ticket ready, whether paper or digital. Platforms are increasingly equipped with boarding gates that allow quick, automated ticket checks via QR code scanning. This speeds up boarding, so make sure to have your ticket at hand to avoid any delay and to make it easier to pass through the gates.

Whatever the reason, you'll receive your SNCF voucher by email within a few days of your request.

This voucher takes the form of a code that you can use for your next trips, as soon as you receive it.

⚠︎ Please note, vouchers have a limited period of validity.

You can use your voucher anywhere: online, at an SNCF station, at an SNCF shop, or by phone.

When searching for your route online, enter the code in "Complete my profile" under the "traveler" tab, or check the "add a discount code" box. The voucher amount will be deducted at the end of the booking process, at the time of payment.

Is your SNCF voucher not working?

Here are a few possible reasons:

• The voucher can only be applied to a single item in your basket.
• The selected route is not eligible. The voucher is only valid on TGV InOui and Intercités trains.
• The voucher cannot be combined with Group, Mini Group, or Pack Tribu fares.

Two tools are available to you:

• On your SNCF app, select your route to check the schedule and running status of your train.

  You'll have access to a map detailing your train's route, its schedule, departure platform, as well as its real-time position during your trip.

• On the garesetconnexions.sncf website, by selecting your station, you can view in real time on your smartphone the same departure and arrival screens as those displayed at the station.

Lyon - Dijon: outbound TGV / return FlixBus at €28

Paris - Thionville: Ouigo / TER at €44 in 2h30

Annecy - Tourcoing: BlaBlaBus / Ouigo at €82 in 5h30

Paris - Bergerac: TGV / TER / Ouigo at €165 in 4h30

Prague - Dijon: FlixBus / TER at €54 in 15h

Good news: on board SNCF trains, you can travel with your pets!

However, a few formalities must be followed to ensure they can board the train:

• For small animals (under 6 kg): they must be placed in a carrier specially designed for travel, measuring no more than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. You can keep the carrier on your lap or under your feet during the journey.
• For larger animals: a special animal ticket is required, to be booked with SNCF. For safety, these animals must wear a muzzle and stay lying down under your feet for the entire journey.
• For guide dogs: they travel free of charge on board SNCF trains and are not required to wear a muzzle.

SNCF trains aren't always punctual, and delays can quickly turn your trip into a stressful experience, especially if you have a connection to catch.

So, what should you do in case of an SNCF delay? And above all, when can you claim an SNCF refund?

Here's what you need to know: from 30 minutes of delay compared to the original schedule, SNCF offers partial or full compensation, regardless of the reason for the delay.

• For a delay of less than one hour, you'll be offered a digital voucher.
• For a delay of more than 1 hour, you can request a refund by bank transfer.

This is known as the G30 guarantee.

The G30 guarantee applies to SNCF Max Jeune (formerly TGV Max) and Intercités tickets, and you have up to 60 days after the travel date to submit your claim.

For TGV journeys across Europe, compensation is also possible, even if the delay occurs abroad.

Here are the refund rates depending on the delay time:

• Between 30 minutes and 2 hours of delay: 25% of the ticket price.
• Between 2 and 3 hours: 50% of the ticket price.
• More than 3 hours: 75% of the ticket price.

To request your compensation, go to the SNCF website. And if you have a connection with another SNCF train (or another carrier), SNCF teams will do their best to find you a solution.

First of all, it's worth noting that SNCF recently launched SNCF CONNECT, a service that gives you access to your SNCF information via a single ID based on your email and password.

You can access this service in several convenient ways:

via SNCF self-service kiosks at stations and shops,
on the moncomptesncf website,
through the SNCF Assistant app,
directly on the SNCF website,
through the TGV InOui Pro app,
from the WiFi portal on board TGV InOui trains,
or even with the Oui.sncf app.
If you're already a member of an SNCF loyalty program, simply log in with your loyalty number and password. Then enter your email address, which will become your new login ID. Note that your email can only be linked to a single SNCF account.

For new users without a membership, choose the "Create my account" option.

Your SNCF Connect account lets you easily manage your information:

update your personal details,
access your SNCF tickets and get proof of purchase,
get your cards in digital format,
print your invoices and receipts,
make and track your requests and complaints,
change your login ID,
check RATP and Ile-de-France Mobilités network schedules.

Minors can travel alone by train, as no legal provision prohibits it, but responsibility for the child lies with the parents, who must assess their ability to travel alone. For younger children, SNCF offers a dedicated service with TGV InOui: Junior & Cie, which allows children aged 4 to 14 to travel accompanied by qualified attendants.

At departure, parents go to the meeting point to check their child in with the attendants. The group is then taken to the platform for boarding. During the journey, fun activities are organized and the attendants make sure children stay hydrated and have snacks. 

On arrival, only a designated adult with photo ID can collect the child from the attendants, ensuring maximum safety.

This service costs between €35 and €54 depending on the length of the trip and the number of children. A safe and convenient option for a worry-free journey!

The French carrier wants you to enjoy the best comfort during your travels. That's why it offers various services on board its trains:

• The bar carriage, TGV only
• At-seat dining, only in TGV 1st class or business
• Luggage areas
• Free SNCF WiFi, only on TGV Inoui
• Free bike storage on TER trains, and an option for €5 on TGV trains
• Baby changing tables on TGV trains
• Waste collection on TGV Ouigo trains

Just plan ahead!

SNCF puts its tickets on sale about 3 months before the departure date. This lets you check SNCF train schedules as well as prices as soon as they open, so you can better plan your trip.

Another way to get cheap SNCF train tickets is to book your train trips as soon as tickets go on sale online. This is called: SNCF ticket sales opening!

Every year, there are several ticket sales opening dates, for traveling during given periods such as:

• SNCF summer sales opening,
• SNCF spring sales opening,
• or the SNCF winter sales opening.

The earlier you search, the more you increase your chances of finding discounted SNCF tickets.

Generally, Ouigo and Intercités tickets remain the most affordable compared to TGV InOui fares.

Ticket prices also vary depending on the period: they tend to be higher close to weekends or during holiday departures. So favor off-peak periods to save even more.

Depending on your situation, you may also benefit from Avantage cards which offer attractive discounts. For more details, check out our dedicated FAQ.

Finally, don't forget your favorite booking platform: Tictactrip, to find SNCF tickets at the best price!

SNCF's baggage policy varies depending on the type of train you take. To find out how many bags are allowed on your journey, check the information directly on the SNCF website.

To avoid any inconvenience, remember to keep your luggage with you at the station, as any unattended baggage risks being seized and destroyed by security teams. A tag with your contact details is also recommended, making it easier to recover your belongings if lost.

As a general rule, SNCF allows each traveller to bring one suitcase to place in the dedicated areas as well as one piece of hand luggage. Always check the specific conditions for your trip so you can travel with peace of mind!

What to do during SNCF strikes?

Disrupted traffic and SNCF strikes can be a real nightmare for travellers.

Here's where to find all the essential information on the timetables of your TGV, TER, Intercités trains, and much more!

All the information is available on the Oui SNCF website and the SNCF portal.

The SNCF strike calendar is your ally to avoid last-minute surprises!

To find out the refund procedures for your SNCF tickets in case of a strike, go to the official SNCF website.

If you'd like to know more about SNCF strikes, upcoming disruptions or even how the network works, check out this blog without moderation!

Finally, you can also get all the strike information directly at the station.

For any question concerning:

• SNCF connections,
• the location of your SNCF station,
• the different ways of travelling with SNCF,
• the possibility of filing a complaint,
• or to send comments to the company,

feel free to contact SNCF directly by phone at 36 35.

The Tictactrip teams are also on hand for any further assistance. Don't hesitate to contact our customer service directly!

The company offers many different services, but the frequent name changes can be confusing. To help you find your way, here is the list of the main SNCF services:

• InOui trains: the classic TGV service.
• Ouigo trains: low-cost TGV service, ideal for finding a cheap SNCF ticket.
• iDVROOM carpooling: SNCF's carpooling service, which can even offer free carpools in case of disruption!
• SNCF coaches: formerly known as Ouibus, the SNCF bus service now operates under the name Blablabus.

All SNCF services are comparable and bookable on Tictactrip. Search away and find your cheap SNCF tickets!

Paper and digital tickets can always be used at the station, but certain situations specifically require a paper ticket:

On regional TER trains, for example, a paper ticket printed at the station is required. To get one, go to an automatic SNCF machine.

You will simply need your booking number, sent by email, as well as the name used for your booking.

Note that, unlike the digital ticket, the paper ticket must be validated before boarding. Failing to do so could result in a fine on top of the ticket price, so be sure to validate it to avoid any inconvenience.

Also note that not only can your SNCF tickets be dematerialised, but so can your Avantage cards, for even easier access to your travel documents!

At SNCF, safety at the station and on board trains is a top priority. With this in mind, here are the main health measures put in place:

• Hand sanitiser available at the station for all travellers.
• Safety and physical distancing measures applied at the station and on board trains.

At the station: protective screens are installed between staff and travellers, and floor markings indicate the distances to be respected.

On board trains: wearing a mask is compulsory for everyone, and access to the bar has been allowed again since the end of July 2020, with strict health rules.

SNCF trains, stations and shops are disinfected daily to ensure a healthy environment. To support these efforts, SNCF has hired numerous cleaning staff.

As you probably know, the Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français has many brands and train travel offers.

We'll introduce you to all the SNCF trains and SNCF subsidiaries.

SNCF trains

• inOui: SNCF's high-speed train brand, created in 2017.

  The main advantage of travelling on inOui trains is the premium service, both at the station and on board. It's a pleasure to travel between Paris and Lyon with such comfort!

• OuiGo: SNCF's low-cost TGV brand.

  Of course, comfort and on-board extras are more limited, but it's perfect for maximum savings. Good concept, right?

• Intercités (also called ICs): for journeys between the capital, Paris, and major French cities.

  On board, you'll find second class or first class seats. Although slower than TGVs, they are cheaper. A good compromise for those who like to take their time!

  There are also two SNCF night trains in France, which are Intercités services.

• TER: for your local and regional journeys, hence the name "Train Express Régional".

  Depending on your route, you'll find options in 1st and 2nd class with SNCF entry-price tickets from €2. TER ticket prices are fixed and depend solely on the distance travelled, so you won't face any price fluctuations or unpleasant surprises!

International trains and rail partnerships

SNCF collaborates with several foreign rail companies to offer international travel options.

• Eurostar: for journeys between England, France and Belgium.
• Elipsos: a joint venture between SNCF and RENFE for journeys between France and Spain.
• Lyria: for journeys between France and Switzerland. 74% owned by SNCF and 26% by the Swiss Federal Railways.

• Thalys: to travel across northern and eastern Europe

Prem's Ticket

SNCF's cheapest fare, available only on TGV and Intercités trains, except Ouigo trains.

These tickets sell out fast, so stay alert to grab one!

Second Class Ticket

These tickets correspond to 2nd class on InOui TGV and Intercités trains.

Note that their price gradually rises between release and departure date.

First Class Ticket

These tickets correspond to 1st class on InOui TGV and Intercités trains.

Slightly more expensive than 2nd class tickets, their fares also rise over time. Sometimes, for just a few extra euros, you can enjoy 1st class, with more spacious, fully comfortable seats. Business Première class is an excellent choice, especially for regular travellers on the French rail network!

Pro Ticket

Valid only in 1st class, this ticket offers benefits at the station and on board:

• Priority boarding and access to the Grands Voyageurs lounge at the station.
• On board: drinks, free newspapers, and at-seat catering service.

Unlike the others, the Pro ticket price stays fixed.

SNCF has several loyalty programmes to meet the needs of each of its travellers.

But which loyalty benefit should you choose to travel more cheaply by train?

First, here are the SNCF advantage cards:

• The Carte jeune (Young card): since there's no SNCF student card, it's for 12-27 year-olds, costs €49/year and gives 30% off.
• The Carte week-end (Weekend card): to enjoy discounts when travelling on weekends. It's aimed at 27-59 year-olds and offers 30% off plus other benefits.
• The Carte senior (Senior card): from age 60. It's also €49/year with 30% off.
• The Carte Avantage Famille (Family Advantage card): for parents aged 27 to 59, discounts of up to -60% on family train journeys.
• The Carte Liberté (Freedom card): for discounts on your Business Première tickets of up to -60%. Recommended for frequent travellers.

These SNCF advantage cards generally pay for themselves after 3 or 4 trips.

And now, on to SNCF subscriptions and passes:

• The TGVMAX subscription: it lets you book an unlimited number of trains for €79/month, very handy for frequent travellers. This offer is available to people aged 16 to 27.
• The Fréquence subscription from 3 trips/year, you're guaranteed up to 50% off your SNCF train tickets.
• The Forfait subscription weekly, monthly or annual, it lets you pay only the booking price, i.e. €1.50 per ticket!
• The TER Subscription: an annual unlimited pass depending on your regions.

For more information on these cards and subscriptions, feel free to check out our dedicated pages directly!

Little tip: you can create a free SNCF account to get discounts based on your purchases.